PAKISTANI FLAG

  green with a vertical white band (symbolizing the role of religious minorities) on the hoist side; a large white crescent and star are centered in the green field; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of Islam

KHARA MSALA CHICKEN

Whole spices are used in this recipe giving it a wonderful taste and rich flavor. Besides its pretty gorgeous to look at. This is a dry dish and is best served with curries and dals.


Ingredients:
3 curry leaves
1/4 tsp mustard seeds
1/4 tsp fennel seeds
1/4 tsp onion seeds
1/2 tsp crushed dried red chillies
1/2 tsp white cumin seeds
1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds
1 tsp salt
1 tsp shredded root ginger
3 garlic cloves, sliced
4 tbs oil
4 fresh green chillies, slit
1 large onion, sliced
1 medium tomato, sliced
1 1/2 lb boneless chicken, cubed
1 tbs fresh cilantro sprigs

Method:
Mix all the seeds listed above, together with the curry leaves and salt. Add the shredded ginger and garlic cloves to the spice mixture in the bowl and stir well.

Heat oil in a deep pan and add the spice mixture, slip in the green chillies and mix further.

Add the sliced onion into the pan and fry over a medium heat for a few min's, until the onions are flavored with the mixture.

Finally add tomatoes and chicken cubes and cook further for 10 min's. The chicken should be cooked through and the sauce reduced.

Stir everything together well, add cilantro and serve hot.

CAPITAL OF PAKISTAN

                                                                                                                   About Islama

Combining a rich history, the confluence of many a civilization and temperate climate, Islamabad - the capital city of Pakistan, is one of the most beautiful cities in the South Asian region. Wide, tree-lined streets adorn the various sectors and zones of the city, making it accessible and spectacular. Administratively, the city is located within the Islamabad Capital Territory, which is federally controlled, even though historically Islamabad has been a part of the Punjab province; more specifically the Potohar Plateau. A meticulously planned city by renowned town planners Doxiadis Associates, Islamabad is the fastest growing city in terms of population, economy and urban development. As this trend continues, the city is shedding its reputation as a city without character, and is fast becoming truly metropolitan.

History of Islamabad After the formation of Pakistan in 1947, it was felt that a new and permanent Capital City had to be built to reflect the diversity of the Pakistani nation. It was considered pertinent to locate the new capital where it could be isolated from the business and commercial activity of the Karachi, and yet be easily accessible from the remotest corner of the country. A commission was accordingly set in motion in 1958, entrusted with the task of selecting a suitable site for the new capital with a particular emphasis on location, climate, logistics and defense requirements, aesthetics, and scenic and natural beauty. After extensive research, feasibility studies and a thorough review of various sites, the commission recommended the area North East of the historic garrison city of Rawalpindi. After the final decision of the National Cabinet, it was put into practice. A Greek firm, Doxiadis Associates devised a master plan based on a grid system, with its north facing the Margallah Hills. The long-term plan was that Islamabad would eventually encompass Rawalpindi entirely, stretching to the West of the historic Grand Trunk road. Islamabad nestles against the backdrop of the Margallah Hills at the northern end of Potohar Plateau. Its climate is healthy, pollution free, plentiful in water resources and lush green. It is a modern and carefully planned city with wide roads and avenues, elegant public buildings and well-organized bazaars, markets, and shopping centers. The city is divided into eight basic zones: Administrative, diplomatic enclave, residential areas, educational sectors, industrial sectors, commercial areas, and rural and green areas. The metropolis of Islamabad today is the pulsating beat of Pakistan, resonating with the energy and strength of a growing, developing nation. It is a city which symbolizes the hopes and dreams of a young and dynamic nation and espouses the values and codes of the generation that has brought it thus far. It is a city that welcomes and promotes modern ides, but at the same time recognizes and cherishes its traditional values and rich history.